Others may object to Jesse Cook's evolution from a more technically pure "flamenco" guitarist as exhibited on his earlier offerings. However, I view "Nomad" as a natural progression and refinement of his prodigious talent, evoking the freedom of his adventurous sojourn across the globe in search of musicians and venues he deemed necessary to create his latest musical vision. "Nomad" is woven through with threads of mediterranean and middle eastern cultural influence, all featuring his incredible guitar prowess AND his unselfish sharing of the spotlight with many other great musicians. The resultant melodic tapestry is truly magnificent. The synergistic compositions tug at one's heartstrings with a haunting beauty all too rare in this world. I sincerely enjoy the vocals on several tracks that others have objected to, seemingly not allowing Cook to stretch and grow beyond his previous great accomplishments, instead attempting to enforce these into strictures that would bind his creative vision.

By all means, do buy ALL Cook's previous CDs, and enjoy each thoroughly unto itself. I encourage each of you not to limit your enjoyment of his later music by insisting that the artist be bound by the form and greatness of his previous accomplishments. Allow yourself to fully appreciate the wide spectrum of this great musician's gifts. "Nomad" is truly worthy of your ears and will reward you well beyond an initial listen, as you grow to appreciate the unique, magnificent and progressive music of Jesse Cook.

whatis now being called a Mediterranean sound. Although he may never have heard or met him, he joins Amr Diab, an Egyptian, in full glory.

Jesse, go!

I am a tremendous fan of Jesse Cook, and once drove 7 hours to attend his nearest concert. His first 3 albums are outstanding.

This one is not.

The guitar riffs are repetitive, as if they've been lifted from earlier albums. Jesse brags that one of the tracks here was created entirely from unused bits and scraps collected during the recording sessions, and it certainly sounds like it: no melody, no logical or emotional progression, no interplay between musicians, but rather flamenco/world beat turned into the dullest of elevator music.

More bizarre yet is the lounge lizard performance of vocalist Flora Purim, in a track that clearly doesn't fit the rest of the album. In his liner notes, Jesse describes at length his conversation with Ms. Purim. Tellingly, he does not bother to talk about the song itself.

There are one or two tracks here that are sensual, exotic, lush and exciting. Jesse once said his goal was to create music that sounds like it was discovered from an ancient culture. If that sounds appealing, buy this album for those one or two worthwhile tracks and fast-forward through the filler material... or buy Vertigo instead.

I am a huge Jesse Cook fan, and have all of his recordings. I don't really have a favorite, because I like all of them, but Nomad is so full of emotion, it could end up being my choice as the best of all. Anyone who likes sensual flamenco style guitar, paired with exotic percussion rhythms will love this CD.

N.S.

I play flamenco guitar, and love Jesse's
first 4 albums, but this one is not worth
owning. Buy his other albums, or Encinas,
or Oscar Lopez. Skip Nomad